How Many Pilots Are on a Plane? Roles and Responsibilities Explained

How many pilots are on a plane depends on the type of aircraft, the length of the flight, and the regulations in place, but the answer might surprise you. From short hops to long-haul international routes, the number of pilots in the cockpit isn’t always the same. Every flight has at least two pilots, but their roles, responsibilities, and even ranks vary. Some flights require more, especially when crossing oceans or flying overnight. 

How Many Pilots Are on a Plane?

When people ask how many pilots are on a plane, they’re often surprised that the answer isn’t always the same. It depends on how far the aircraft is flying, what type of aircraft it is, and what the regulations require. Some flights have one pilot. Others might have a full rotating crew.

How Many Pilots Are Typically on a Flight?

• Short flights or general aviation: Many small aircraft used in general aviation, like Cessnas and Pipers, are certified for single-pilot operations. These are common for flight training, private flying, or short-range charter flights. In these cases, the pilot handles all flight duties, from preflight checks to landing. However, some pilots will fly with a co-pilot or instructor, especially during training or in more complex conditions.
• Commercial airliners: Standard practice for commercial airline flights is to have two pilots in the cockpit: a Captain (Pilot in Command) and a First Officer (Second in Command). The Captain is ultimately responsible for the flight, while the First Officer shares in all flight duties. They alternate roles during different legs of a trip, trading off who is “flying” the plane and who is handling communication, navigation, and checklists. This setup provides redundancy, improved safety, and better workload management.
• Long-haul international flights: On flights that exceed eight hours—like transatlantic or transpacific routes—airlines are usually required to staff three or four pilots. These include two active crew members and one or two relief pilots who rotate in during scheduled rest periods. Long-haul flights have designated rest areas or crew bunks so that each pilot gets mandatory off-duty time to maintain alertness and performance. This rotation ensures that there’s always a fresh, qualified pilot at the controls, even on ultra-long flights that can last over 12 or 14 hours.

Airlines may also assign additional crew members based on weather forecasts, operational complexity, or expected delays. Some cargo flights and military operations follow similar models, adapting crew size to mission duration and risk level.

In every case, the number of pilots is calculated carefully to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance. Whether it’s a solo training flight or a transatlantic commercial run, there’s always a qualified pilot—or team of pilots—keeping things under control.

Beyond Takeoff: A Look Inside a Pilot’s Job

There’s a common idea that modern jets practically fly themselves, but that’s not the full picture. While automation plays a role, pilots stay engaged from the moment they arrive at the airport until long after the wheels touch down. Every phase of flight requires decision-making, monitoring, and communication.

Pre-Flight Preparation

Before the aircraft even leaves the gate, the crew is already at work. Pilots arrive well before departure to review the flight plan, check weather conditions along the route, and go over aircraft performance data.

They complete a walk-around inspection of the aircraft to check for any visible issues and coordinate with ground crew, maintenance, and dispatch. This is also when they brief each other on the flight plan and run through the first of many checklists.

Takeoff and Initial Climb

Takeoff is one of the most demanding phases of flight. Pilots must closely monitor engine performance, airspeed, runway alignment, and weather conditions.

The captain typically handles the takeoff while the first officer monitors instruments and handles radio communication. Both pilots are alert and fully engaged, ready to respond if anything deviates from plan during this high-workload segment.

Cruise Phase

Once the aircraft reaches cruising altitude, the workload shifts. Pilots stay in contact with air traffic control (ATC), monitor flight systems, manage fuel usage, and prepare for potential weather or route changes.

While autopilot handles some of the flying, pilots continuously verify that the systems are doing what they’re supposed to. If weather, turbulence, or reroutes come into play, the crew evaluates options and coordinates with ATC to adjust.

Descent and Landing

As the destination approaches, pilots review approach procedures, brief the arrival sequence, and prepare the aircraft for descent. They manage speed, altitude, and spacing with other traffic while coordinating with both ATC and the cabin crew.

Landing requires sharp focus, as conditions like crosswinds, visibility, and runway layout all factor into the approach. One pilot flies the aircraft while the other supports with callouts, checklists, and systems monitoring.

After the Flight

Once the plane is parked, the work continues. Pilots complete system shutdown procedures, secure the aircraft, and fill out flight logs and maintenance reports. They may debrief the flight, especially if there were issues or unexpected events.

Thinking About Becoming a Pilot? 

If you’ve been thinking about becoming a pilot, there’s never been a better time to act. Aviation is growing fast, and the need for well-trained, safety-minded pilots is bigger than ever. Airlines, charter companies, cargo carriers, and corporate flight departments are all looking for the next generation of aviators and you could be one of them.

The opportunities are real and the timing is right. Boeing projects a global need for 674,000 new pilots over the next 20 years, with 123,000 needed in North America alone. That translates to strong job prospects, career stability, and the chance to build a future doing something truly unique.

The Leopard Aviation Training Experience

At Leopard Aviation, we focus on what really matters: giving every student the tools, training, and support they need to succeed, whether they’re flying for fun or working toward the airlines. We’re a family-owned, values-driven school based in Phoenix, where the weather is perfect for flying nearly all year long.

We’re a family-owned school with deep roots in aviation and a strong commitment to helping our students become safe, skilled, and confident pilots.

Our aircraft are some of the best training planes available. We fly brand-new Cessna 172S Skyhawks, fully equipped with Garmin G1000 glass cockpits, GFC700 autopilot, and ADS-B in/out for advanced situational awareness. These are the same avionics systems used in many commercial and corporate aircraft, giving you a head start as you build time and prepare for professional flying.

But what really sets us apart is our team. Our Certified Flight Instructors are chosen for their skill, passion, and people-first attitude. Some come from airline or corporate backgrounds, others are full-time educators, and many are former students who now give back by teaching the next generation of pilots. You’ll be matched with an instructor who fits your learning style and supports your pace, because how you learn matters just as much as what you learn.

If you’re not quite sure yet, start with a discovery flight. It’s a no-pressure, hands-on flight with one of our instructors where you actually take the controls and see what it feels like to fly. It’s the moment many of our students realize: this is what I was meant to do.

Take the First Step Toward the Sky

There’s never been a better time to become a pilot. The industry needs skilled aviators, the tools to train have never been more advanced, and with the right flight school, the path is straightforward. Whether your goal is to fly professionally or just for the love of it, you’ll need solid training, flexible options, and the support to help you succeed.

At Leopard Aviation, we’ve built a flight training experience designed around you—modern aircraft, passionate instructors, and a schedule that fits your life. If you’re ready to stop wondering and start flying, schedule your flight training lessons with us today.

FAQs

How many pilots are on a plane during a long international flight?

On long-haul flights—typically over 8 hours—there are usually three to four pilots. This allows for inflight rest rotations, so at least two well-rested pilots are always at the controls. Crew size is determined by flight duration, regulations, and airline policy to ensure safety and alertness throughout the entire journey.

How many pilots are on a plane flying domestically in the U.S.?

Most commercial domestic flights have two pilots: a captain and a first officer. They work as a team, sharing duties like flying the aircraft, communicating with air traffic control, and managing navigation. Two qualified pilots are required by FAA regulations on nearly all airline-operated flights.

Do smaller planes require more than one pilot?

Generally, no. Most light aircraft used in general aviation, like the Cessna 172, are certified for single-pilot operation. Many students train and eventually fly solo in these planes. However, instructors or copilots may be onboard during training or checkrides, depending on the flight purpose and stage.

At Leopard Aviation, how many pilots are in the plane during training?

In our training flights at Leopard Aviation, there are always two people: the student pilot and a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). You’ll have hands-on control while your instructor monitors, guides, and ensures safety. As you gain experience, you’ll eventually be cleared to fly solo.

Does Leopard Aviation offer solo flight experience?

Yes. Solo flight is a major milestone in our training program at Leopard Aviation. After you’ve met specific requirements and your instructor signs off, you’ll fly solo under real-world conditions. It’s one of the most empowering steps in becoming a pilot—and we’ll make sure you’re fully prepared.

Do all commercial pilots eventually become captains?

Many do, but it takes time, experience, and often seniority within an airline. Captains are responsible for the final decisions and need strong leadership, judgment, and technical skills. After building hours and gaining experience as a first officer, pilots can upgrade to captain roles through airline training programs and evaluations.